Arsenal seized control of their Women’s Champions League quarter-final clash against Chelsea with a 3-1 first-leg victory at the Emirates.
The Gunners, who are the current European champions, have been dominant at home this season, suffering just one defeat in 21 matches under Renee Slegers in north London.
They also came into the game in strong form, unbeaten in seven matches across all competitions—a run that began with a 2-0 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in January—and they continued that momentum.
Chelsea started brightly, hitting the post twice in the opening 15 minutes through Alyssa Thompson and Lauren James. However, Arsenal struck first against the run of play, with Stina Blackstenius heading in a Katie McCabe free-kick.
Shortly after the half-hour mark, Chloe Kelly produced a moment of brilliance, firing a powerful shot from the left that beat Hannah Hampton, who may feel she could have done better against her England teammate.
Chelsea thought they had pulled one back before halftime when Veerle Buurman headed in at the back post, but the goal was disallowed for a foul on Laia Codina. VAR reviewed the incident and upheld the decision, though it appeared to be a soft call.
The Blues improved in the second half and found a goal in the 66th minute through Lauren James, who curled in a superb effort after a cleared corner fell kindly to her.
However, Arsenal restored their two-goal cushion 10 minutes later when Alessia Russo netted her eighth goal of the Champions League campaign, the highest tally in the competition. She received a pass from Blackstenius between Keira Walsh and Lucy Bronze before turning and finishing brilliantly past Hampton.
Chelsea had another goal ruled out late in the match, as Kadeisha Buchanan scored but was penalised for a high foot on Anneke Borbe, a decision that was more clearly justified.
The result gives Arsenal a strong advantage heading into the second leg at Stamford Bridge on April 1, while Chelsea face a difficult task as they continue their pursuit of a first Champions League title.